September 2014, Vol. 69, No. 9
Equipment Spotlight
Equipment Spotlight: Plastic Pipe Fusion/Fittings
Plastic pipe fusion/fittings by McElroy, Footage Tools, GF Piping Systems, Q-TEK, IPEX Inc. and Integrity Fusion Products.
McElroy
The QuickCamp System allows operators to butt fuse polyethylene pipe from 8-inch IPS to 36-inch OD day or night during severe weather conditions in a climate-controlled shelter that protects fusion joints from the elements. A single operator can load and align pipe by remote control from inside the shelter with the MegaMc PolyHorse and MegaMc Rollers pipe-handling tools which are included in the QuickCamp System in addition to a 1236/900 or 824/630 fusion carriage. The carriage can be moved by up to 18 inches so that the pipe ends can be adjusted for proper face-off when pulling pipe through the shelter. 918.831.8611, mcelroy.com/fusion
Footage Tools
The B280 Butt Fusion System features a four clamp system that provides added strength when fusing PE and HDPE pipe sizes ranging from 1 ¼-6 inches in diameter. Trimming or facing the pipe is simple using the gear drive power-facing tool, which is positioned between the pipe clamps using the guide pins. Guide plugs on the facing tool fit inside the pipe wall and assist in holding the pipe firmly in place during the facing operation. The heating irons set at 500 degrees Fahrenheit are used to heat fuse the pipe. The irons are positioned using the same guide pins located on the pipe clamps. Machine clamp movement is generated by the operator through a rack and pinion style mechanism that applies consistent pressure with minimum effort. 888.737.3668, footagetools.com
GF Piping Systems
Key to the Electro Plus Fusion Machine’s ease of use is its hand-held user interface. The operator can place the fusion power unit on the floor while using the cables and hand-held unit on a ladder with the pipe and fittings. The unit can fuse multiple joints in one fusion cycle and its one-button repeat fusion cycle for same-size joints. The Electro Plus has an operating temperature range of 14 degree F to 113 degrees F and compensates automatically for ambient temperature. Input voltage requirements are 100-130 VAC or 200-250 VAC 60 Hz AC RMS. 800.854.4090, gfpiping.com
Q-TEK
Q-TEK’s model 23, 45 and 66 saddle fusion machines are designed for polyethylene pipe ranging from 1¼-inch to 6-inch IPS. Standard 10-inch top frames are used for applying standard tapping tee fittings in tight work areas. High volume 16-inch top frames are used for both standard and high volume fittings. Top frames are easily interchanged. All Q-TEK liners and tapping tee holders are interchangeable on all Q-TEK saddle fusion machines. For trouble-free service, a baked epoxy finish is applied to the frames and all steel parts are plated for protection. 800.258.7899, qtektools.com
IPEX Inc.
Now available in 10-inch and 12-inch C907 fitting configurations, injection molded Blue Brute fittings have a wall thickness 125 percent larger than SDR18 pipe, and custom-made fabricated fittings are wrapped with a tough layer of fiberglass for extra protection. Blue Brute systems are immune to corrosion from aggressive soils and galvanic action. The glass-like finish of PVC reduces friction losses and eliminates the tuberculation common in iron pipes. As a result, pumping costs are reduced and water quality is maintained. A thicker bell results in a more robust fitting. All Blue Brute fittings are shipped with standard gaskets that accept cast-iron-sized PVC pipe. Transition gaskets for IPS-sized pipe are an option for all sizes. For applications where fittings must be buried in soil with hydrocarbon contamination, Nitrile gaskets are available. 800.463.9572, ipexinc.com
Integrity Fusion Products
Integrity Fusion Products’ IntegriFuse brand includes a full line of HDPE butt fusion fittings, electrofusion fittings, socket fusion fittings, poly ball valves, transitions, and HDPE fusion equipment. Exclusive items include IntegriFuse Molded Reducing Tees and Molded Lateral Wyes. Integrity Fusion Products also manufactures the industry-leading IntegriFuse Electrofusion Processor as part of its HDPE fusion equipment line. 770.632.7530, integrityfusion.com
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